Re: [Leica] an ethical question....

[George Lottermoser <imagist@concentric.net>]

The "pro" should have a contract with the couple which should 
insure his expected income. While you may impact his additional
sales (beyond the contract) that should not concern your decision
to behave as you feel correct for your friends and relatives. If
another pro, say a news photographer, appeared at the event to
cover it for a local paper and the couple asked to see his/her
shots; I doubt the paper would ask such poignant questions. When
I photograph "special events" on contract, I make sure that those
paying the bill know my minimum fee and what they can expect to
receive for that fee. Additional sales, which may or may not be
affected by other folks snapping pics, pro or otherwise, will
come or not. I can only guarantee additional sales if I shoot
better than everyone else and the folks have the money to buy
more than the contract already allows.

I say, "Send everyone to the web page and let them pick what they
want."

Your only obligation in this regard is to your heart.

Now if you asked, "Can I get in front of and walk all over where
the hired pro is working, at an event? or Can I fire my flash at
his perfectly placed slaved strobes?"

I'd say, "Absolutely not." That's stepping over a line.

George